Subject: Request for Improved Special Needs Access and School Transfer Processes

 
Honorable Natalie Jameson
Minister of Education and Early Years
2nd Floor Sullivan
PO Box 2000
Charlottetown, PE C1A 7N8

 
Dear Minister Jameson,

As parents, we know our children best and are their strongest advocates. We firmly believe that we have the right to determine the educational environment that best suits our children's needs. Our children deserve to be heard, supported, and respected by 
those in charge, especially when we, as parents, cannot always be present to ensure their well-being.

The current policy of assigning schools strictly based on addressing needs urgent revision. While we understand the desire to prevent frequent school changes, a rigid “not our 
policy” approach fails to consider the unique circumstances of individual children. When a child is clearly struggling and has supporting documentation from community professionals, denying a change of environment does a disservice to the child and their family. We believe this may even infringe upon their rights.

We propose the following solutions:
1. Expanded Districts and Overlapping Choices:
o Allow for overlapping districts, enabling parents to choose from multiple schools within a district. This flexibility would empower parents to make 
informed decisions based on their child's specific needs.
o Loosen transfer requirements to include input from Child Protective Services (CPS), parents, and doctors. Their expertise can guide decisions about what is best for the child. 

2. Transparent and Inclusive Decision-Making:
o Avoid relying solely on the opinion of school principals and staff. While they play a crucial role, their perspective should not override documented evidence or parental concerns.
o Establish a transparent process that involves parents, educators, and community professionals in determining the most suitable educational setting for each child.

3. Rights of the Child:
o As signatories to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), we have a duty to uphold its principles. Article 23 emphasizes the right of children with disabilities to full and effective participation in society, including education. Let us honor this commitment.

4. Addressing Shortcomings:
o Cease the practice of sending “problem” students home. Denying them an education violates their rights and perpetuates inequality.
o Invest in hiring more Educational Assistants (EAs) to provide essential one-on-one support to students with special needs.
o Improve flexibility in how a student qualifies for a one-on-one EA.
o Ensure practices that allow for children to be involved in decision-making processes that affect them directly.  Just because a child is young or special needs does not mean they shouldn't have a voice.

5. Transparency and Accountability:
o Ensure transparency in decision-making processes related to school transfers and child-centered procedures.
o Regularly update parents on their rights and options, emphasizing the child’s best interests.

Minister Jameson, we appreciate your dedication to our province’s future. By prioritizing improved access and smoother school transfers, we can create an inclusive educational environment that benefits all children. Let us work together to make positive changes that positively impact our community.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Best regards,

[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]